Studies Show Copper Inhibits Growth of Bacteria and Viruses
There is scientific evidence now to show that copper kills 99 percent of bacteria, including super bugs like MRSA, within two hours of contact. The EPA earlier this year announced that copper has antimicrobial properties, capable of killing bacteria as well as viruses.

NEW YORK, NY October 16, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- In the war on germs, people usually don't think of their sink as a weapon. But, it just might be. There is scientific evidence now to show that copper kills 99 percent of bacteria, including super bugs like MRSA, within two hours of contact. Research also has shown that H1N1, commonly referred to as the swine flu virus, likewise does not surivive on copper. Based on a review of the studies and its own independent lab tests, the United States Environmental Protection Agency earlier this year announced that copper has antimicrobial properties, capable of killing bacteria as well as viruses.

A copper sink has become a popular design choice for the home. Few customers were aware, though, of its germ fighting status as they chose one for its uniqueness, unusual color and handwrought texture. "The anti-microbial characteristic has come as a pleasant surprise benefit to consumers and designers alike," says Naomi Howard, president of Native Trails, the country's largest producer of hand-hammered sinks and tubs. "A copper sink is not a substitute for good hygienic practices, but it's nice to know that the copper surface actually has a role in disinfecting your sink."

"Copper's germ-fighting properties aren't a new discovery, but rather a very old one that is being put to modern scientific tests and applications. In many ancient cultures, healers used copper and copper powder to remedy a variety of maladies. For example, ancient Egyptians used copper to sterilize drinking water and disinfect chest wounds. The Aztecs used it to cure sore throats and Persians used it to treat infections.

Three US hospitals, including Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York, are looking into the practical applications of copper's antimicrobial qualities. A study is underway to determine whether the rates of hospital-acquired infections might be reduced by replacing high-contact surfaces in ICUs with items made from copper and copper alloys.

And, you thought copper sinks were just pretty to look at.


For more information on copper sinks by Native Trails, visit www.nativetrails.net.

Press Release Contact Information:

Shannon Burton
French West Vaughan
Account Executive
185 Madison Ave., FL 4
New York, NY
USA 10016
Voice: 212.213.8562 x 309